VANCOUVER, B.C. — The Truck Loggers Association (TLA) has conducted a survey that shows there is optimism about the future of the coastal forestry industry in B.C., but further changes are needed.

It was the first such study conducted and it involved extensive input from mayors representing communities dependent on the forestry industry in B.C.’s coastal forestry region.

The study found that most mayors of those regions agreed there were positive changes taking place. However the respondents also suggested the changes taking place weren’t well-enough understood by the communities affected by them.

The mayors went on to suggest local job loss (including those of independent hauling contractors) was the primary concern of these communities.

“Even though community leaders are hopeful, we found a great deal of confusion about the provincial government’s Forestry Revitalization Plan along with some concern over whether local input has been taken into consideration.” says TLA executive director Jim Girvan.

Like the trucking industry, the forestry business is having difficulties encouraging young people to enter the industry even though 25 per cent of B.C. jobs are related to forestry. That inability to recruit young workers was identified as a major problem during the survey.

To review the full report, visit: www.truckloggers.com.